This apochromatic telescope features a three-lens objective with a central lens made of ED (extra-low dispersion) glass. This ensures excellent suppression of chromatic aberration, which is inherent in refracting telescopes. The result is a bright and high-contrast image.
A fourth lens is positioned downstream of the objective lens, which flattens the curved image field. This is why this apochromatic telescope is also marketed as a quadruplet or Astrograph. This lens in the optical path ensures consistent sharpness right to the edge of the image field. There is therefore no need to purchase a separate image field flattener. Furthermore, this design makes back focus uncritical: if the image is in focus on the camera sensor, the required distance to the camera sensor is also correct.
The extension tube with integrated filter thread included in the scope is designed for astrophotography. It features the standard thread sizes found on most cameras, so securely attaching a camera is no problem. For visual observation, this tube is simply removed. This leaves sufficient space to the objective focus to attach an optional diagonal mirror and an eyepiece – and this is done very easily via the 2-inch barrel mount.
A reduction gear is provided to allow for precise focus adjustment. The integrated rotator enables optimal alignment of the camera sensor with the telescope image or field of view. Both features are essential for astrophotography and are included with this Apo.
The practical handle and the standard viewfinder shoes on the focuser allow for the attachment of additional accessories.
Speaking of standards: mounting on an astronomical mount is very simple via a prism rail in accordance with the Vixen standard.
ZWO AM3 Equatorial Mount with Harmonic Drive Gears
With the Harmonic Equatorial Mount AM3, ZWO offers a transportable mount for astrophotography. The mount weighs less than 4 kg and carries telescopes up to 8 kg without counterweight. With counterweight and the counterweight rod (not included) the mount can even carry telescopes up to 13 kg. Several years of development and various patents have gone into this exciting mount.
Many functions and easy operation
The AM3 can be operated in equatorial or azimuth mode. For astrophotography, the equatorial mode is used. The mount must be aligned as accurately as possible with the celestial pole. For visual observing or lunar and planetary photography, the altazimuth mode is sufficient. The mount is then ready for use in a few minutes. The status indicator always shows in which mode the mount is: Red represents equatorial mode and green represents altazimuth mode.
No more counterweights needed
Normally, German equatorial mounts need counterweights to balance the telescope weight. This is the only way to ensure proper operation. The AM3 uses a harmonic drive from the robotics industry, it does not require counterweights up to a telescope weight of 8 kg. This makes the AM3 lighter, more compact and easier to operate. Only for heavier telescopes we recommend counterweights to keep mount and tripod in balance.
Smooth tracking is guaranteed
ZWO checks and measures every AM3 mount before delivery and guarantees a periodic error ("PE") of less than +/-20 arc seconds. The periodic error occurs very slowly, so that the autoguider has enough time to correct it. Of course, the mount has an ST-4 autoguiding interface. Via ASIAir or other software the PE can also be reduced electronically.
Useable anywhere on Earth
As you would expect from a true travel mount, the AM3 can be used anywhere on Earth, from the equator to the poles. The mount has room in any flight baggage.
No more cables thanks to WiFi
All functions of the mount can be controlled via smartphone. Of course, the AM3 works especially well with ASIAir from ZWO. With ASIAIR, everything from the camera to autoguiding to the mount can be controlled via app using a smartphone or tablet. The mount can also be operated with the handbox without a smartphone. The handbox also works wirelessly, of course.
This tripod's light weight and compact size make it the ideal travel companion. However, with a load capacity of 50kg, using it with large mounts and telescopes is no issue.
For improved stability you can use the supplied weight containers. Simply attach these to the tripod legs and fill them with sand or stones, for example.
It not only matters which telescope you buy but also where you buy it. Our additional services:
- We are a leading telescope dealer and know the devices we sell. Our customer service team will gladly help you after your purchase if you have problems with assembly or operation.
- We provide a copy of the 80-page Telescope ABC beginners handbook with every telescope.
